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Ibragimov denies Holyfield dream

14/10/2007

Evander Holyfield's dream of becoming a five-time heavyweight champion has been foiled by Sultan Ibragimov who retained his WBO title with a unanimous points victory in Moscow.

Ibragimov was able to pick off his opponent with relative ease and counter punched his way to victory, with ringside judges scoring the contest 118-110, 117-111 and 117-111.

Holyfield was attempting to become the second oldest heavyweight champion ever at the age of 44, just behind George Foreman, but the American could not repeat his compatriot's achievement.

Holyfield unleashed a series of salvos in the opening few rounds, trying to knock the Russian out early. Ibragimov weathered the storm and his greater stamina allowed him to dominate the contest.

The 32-year-old had Holyfield in trouble in the seventh round and again in the tenth but the veteran showed he had a strong chin and managed to escape a knockdown.

Despite the defeat Holyfield maintains he has not given up on his quest to regain a heavyweight crown.

He said: "The important thing is I showed improvement and adjustment. He got the decision and I have to go back to the drawing board."

Ibragimov is now undefeated in 23 fights and will target a unification fight with either Wladimir Klitschko who holds the IBF and IBO titles, WBA champion Ruslan Chagaev, or WBC champion Oleg Maskaev.

Holyfield's record is now 42 wins from 53 fights with nine defeats and two draws.